The Blowhole to Shepherds Flat hike commences at the Blowhole car parking area and follow the marked Great Dividing Trail which descends to Sailors Creek. Cross the creek taking care during or after heavy rain. After crossing the creek, climb to a junction of four tracks. Take the right-hand vehicle track heading north then north-east and from in a northerly direction. After 2.9 km pass through an old gate and walk off-track through moderately dense scrub passing a deserted stone house on the right 300 m after the gate. After a further 500 m join Wayman Road and turning right follow it to the junction with Hepburn-Newstead Road. Continue along on the grass verge in a north-westerly direction for 1.4 km. Leave the sealed road at the Willow Cafe and follow Shepherds Flat-Weroona Road for 700 m before taking a minor track heading south.
Continue in a southerly direction off-track along a spur for about 1 km before meeting a track. Turn left and follow the track south-east and then south for 1.6 km keeping a watchful eye for open mine shafts until joining Basalt Gully Road. Follow the gravel road for 600 m then make a left turn along Boots Gully track with its steady climb for 1.2 km in a southerly direction. Turn east-north-east along Blowhole Track for 200 m before turning east-south-east along a poorly defined track which after 200 m becomes more clearly defined. Continue a further 800 m to a track junction visited earlier in the hike. Turn right along the track heading south-east and follow the remains of a former water race, which meanders along a contour in a south-easterly direction. Turn in a north-north-easterly direction to the Blowhole viewing site and then return to the car park.
This hike involves off-trail walking and should therefore only be attempted by parties experienced in the use of map and compass and equipped with a topographic map covering the hike. The provided hike map is unsuitable for navigation purposes.
Steep tracks and steps may be slippery when wet. The stream crossing may be up to 10 m wide after rain. Some off-track is through thick scrub. Good walking shoes or boots are required and walking poles may be helpful.
Total distance: 13760 m
Max elevation: 494 m
Min elevation: 343 m
Total climbing: 349 m
Total descent: -350 m
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From Melbourne head west via the M1, M80 and the Western Freeway/Highway (M8) and take the C141 exit, turning north to Daylesford. From Daylesford continue north on Main Road for about 4 km, turn left onto Hepburn-Newstead Road and continue for 1.3 km to Eighteenth Street. Turn left and follow this road for 800 m and turn right into Blowhole Road. Continue for a further 600 m to the Blowhole parking area.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Hepburn Regional Park nestles around the famous mineral springs townships of Daylesford, Hepburn and Hepburn Springs. Rich with natural springs and relics from the gold mining era, the park abounds with opportunities for bushwalking, mountain bike and horse riding, picnicking and nature study. Mount Franklin is a small volcanic crater with basic camping set amid exotic trees.
Spotted a change on this trail? Maybe there are new features, the route has shifted, or the trail is permanently closed. Whatever the update, I’d love your input. Your feedback helps fellow hikers stay informed and ensures that our trail info stays fresh and reliable.
Looking for things to do in Hepburn Regional Park or nearby? Try these similar hikes or bushwalks.
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Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
3 Reviews on “Blowhole to Shepherds Flat Hike (13.8km)”
Paige Hogan looks like a fun day out
Sian – David should this be on our list. Not sure if it’s near Daylesford
Oliver Bonaccorso
Sharyn Kitchen I’m soooooooooo hanging out for a walk in the beautiful bush.
Here’s the link, hard the tell exactly what is closed though http://parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/hepburn-r.p/things-to-do/blow-hole
I read somewhere that the track to the blowhole is closed? I’ll find the page and post it here. Recently linked the Three Lost Children’s and Great Divide Trail to create a close to 20km loop hike. Was a good walk!
I will be in town for a gym session so yes. I can meet to discuss interest. 🙂
It looks really good
I’ve only done 10k
Joel Spiller you’re not Paige !
Jill
Liz Maggs Smith
Looks a good track…..close to home …..
Lucy Roberts, a nice for you and I to do?
Lynn Peterson …your fitter than me ?
Lynn Peterson ?
Maddison Ruggiero
Madeline Keating
Martin looks nice.
Mike Rixon
no it doesnt
Jason Whittle
Julie Roberts when you join us again
Let’s do it together and leave Joel Spiller at home